miistakis logo
header

Summer 2012

Newsletter Archive

 

Better Understanding Ecosystem Services

 
article image

Ecosystem Services (ES) is becoming a standard framework for promoting conservation policy and action in Alberta. However, the conversation is fast outpacing our shared understanding of the ways these services are valued, the reasons for doing so, and how the concept can be practically applied. To help better understand this complex field and its application, Miistakis co-hosted an ES Community of Practice meeting with Alberta Environment and Alberta Innovates BioSolutions in June. In August, Miistakis participated in an ES symposium in Portland, Oregon led by ES guru Bob Costanza. These efforts have greatly informed our Ecosystem Services Assessment work with the Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute and our payment for Ecosystem Services research with the Ranchers Stewardship Alliance Inc.